Does IgA nephropathy affect any part of the body other than the kidneys?
No, it does not, but there is a condition called Henoch-Schönlein purpura (often shortened to HSP) which is related to IgA nephropathy. HSP gets its odd name from the two German doctors who originally described it over a hundred years ago. We now know that the kidney problem in HSP is very similar to IgA nephropathy; but patients with HSP also get a skin rash and may have aches and pains in their joints and attacks of abdominal pain. IgA is found in the skin as well as in the kidneys in HSP. The skin, joint and abdominal effects of HSP often go away in a few weeks or months, but the kidney problem can stay much longer, and may eventually cause kidney failure. HSP can occur at any age but is commonest in young children. If I have IgA nephropathy should I change my lifestyle? No, you should not. Diet – there are no foods known to cause IgA nephropathy or to provoke attacks of visible haematuria. You should continue with normal healthy eating. Alcohol – alcohol has no effect on kidney dis
